Filters airborne particles
Nasal hairs, mucus and the nasal lining help capture particles before air travels deeper into the respiratory system.
The science of better breathing
Open the nose.
Breathe with less resistance.
Learn how nasal breathing works, how external nose strips mechanically support the nasal valve, and what current research says about airflow, snoring, sleep and exercise.
Drug-freeMechanical support
ExternalNo internal device
Australian owned
Drug-free support
Sleep + sport
Fast Australian dispatch
01 — The foundations
Why breathing through your nose matters
Your nose is more than an air inlet. It filters, warms and humidifies incoming air before it reaches the lower airways. The paranasal sinuses are also an important source of nasal nitric oxide.
Warms and humidifies air
The nasal passages condition inhaled air, helping reduce the dry, cool airflow that can occur with habitual mouth breathing.
Carries nasal nitric oxide
Research identifies the paranasal sinuses as a major reservoir of nitric oxide, which is carried toward the lungs during nasal inhalation.
Supports a controlled breathing route
Nasal breathing naturally adds resistance compared with open-mouth breathing, which may help make breathing feel slower and more controlled at lower intensities.
Without a strip
Nasal sidewalls unsupported
With a nose strip
Gentle outward lift
Illustration only. Anatomy and individual response vary.
02 — External nasal dilation
How On The Nose Co. nose strips work
The nasal valve is one of the narrowest parts of the upper airway. An external nasal strip uses flexible spring-like bands to gently lift the skin and sidewalls of the nose outward.
This mechanical action can increase nasal patency and reduce resistance to airflow for some people. It does not contain a decongestant or alter the airway chemically.
- External, non-invasive and drug-free
- Designed for sleep, snoring, running, gym and sport
- Strong adhesion with flexible, comfortable lift
- Available in clear, black and targeted product options
03 — Where they may help
One simple mechanism.
Different breathing goals.
Nose strips do not force oxygen into the body. They support the entrance to the nasal airway, which may make nasal breathing feel easier when restricted nasal airflow is part of the problem.
Sleep and snoring
When snoring is linked to restricted nasal airflow, opening the nasal valve may support quieter, more comfortable nasal breathing. Nose strips do not treat obstructive sleep apnoea.
Running and training
Athletes may use nose strips to reduce the sensation of nasal restriction. Research on direct performance improvements is mixed, so they are best viewed as an airflow and comfort aid.
Congestion and narrow nasal valves
External dilation may be useful when the front of the nose feels narrow or collapses inward during inhalation. Persistent blockage should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
04 — Mouth tape
A gentle cue for nasal breathing at night
Mouth tape is designed to discourage the lips from falling open during sleep. It should only be considered when the nose is comfortably clear and nasal breathing is easy.
Early studies in selected people with mild sleep-disordered breathing have reported reductions in snoring and apnoea measures, but the overall evidence remains limited. Mouth taping is not a replacement for diagnosis, CPAP or medical treatment.
- Do not use when your nose is blocked or breathing feels restricted
- Do not use after alcohol, sedatives or when nauseated
- Seek medical advice for suspected sleep apnoea or persistent snoring
- Stop immediately if you feel anxious, uncomfortable or short of breath
Better together
Open the nasal route.
Open the nasal route.
Support closed-mouth sleep.
Nose strips support the nasal entrance. Mouth tape acts as a behavioural cue to keep the lips gently together. This combination may help some people maintain nasal breathing more comfortably overnight.
STEP 1
Apply the nose strip to clean, dry skin.
Apply the nose strip to clean, dry skin.
STEP 2
Only use mouth tape if nasal breathing is clear and comfortable.
Only use mouth tape if nasal breathing is clear and comfortable.
05 — Evidence, not hype
What published research shows
Scientific findings depend on the population, device, breathing condition and outcome being measured. Here is the balanced version.
External strips can increase nasal airflow at rest
A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that an external nasal dilator significantly increased nasal cross-sectional area and nasal airflow at rest.
Read the PubMed abstract →Results may be strongest when nasal blockage contributes
Clinical studies have reported reduced snoring in some users, including people with chronic rhinitis. Response varies, and a nasal strip cannot address every source of snoring.
Read the PubMed abstract →The paranasal sinuses are a major source of nasal nitric oxide
Foundational research identified high nitric oxide production in the human paranasal sinuses. Nasal inhalation transports nasally derived nitric oxide toward the lungs.
Read the PubMed abstract →Comfort benefits do not guarantee better performance
Some studies report improved nasal patency or respiratory effort, while systematic evaluation has found no consistent improvement in VO₂max, heart rate or perceived exertion in healthy participants.
Read the review →Promising findings in a small, selected mild-OSA group
A preliminary study of mouth-breathers with mild obstructive sleep apnoea reported lower snoring and apnoea–hypopnoea measures during mouth taping.
Read the full study →The overall evidence for mouth taping is still limited
A recent review cautioned that evidence is not strong enough to support broad clinical claims and that mouth closure may be unsuitable for some airway patterns.
Read the review →
Our evidence standard: On The Nose Co. describes nose strips as mechanical airflow support—not a cure, oxygen booster or treatment for sleep apnoea. Individual results vary.
06 — Get the best result
Application matters
Correct placement and skin preparation help the strip lift properly and stay secure through sleep, humidity and training.
Clean and dry
Wash the nose and remove oil, moisturiser or sweat. Allow the skin to dry completely before applying.
Position correctly
Place the strip across the lower bridge of the nose, just above the point where the nostrils begin to flare.
Press and activate
Press the centre and ends firmly for 10–15 seconds. Remove slowly with warm water in the morning.
07 — Common questions
Nose strip and mouth tape science FAQ
Clear answers written for people—and structured so search engines and AI assistants can understand the page.
What do nose strips actually do?
Nose strips use flexible bands to gently pull the outer walls of the nose outward. This can increase space around the nasal valve and reduce resistance to nasal airflow for some users.
Do nose strips put more oxygen into your body?
No. A nose strip does not create oxygen. It may make airflow through the nose feel easier by mechanically supporting the nasal passages. Any performance effect depends on the individual and the cause of their breathing restriction.
Can nose strips help reduce snoring?
They may help when restricted nasal airflow contributes to snoring. They are less likely to help when snoring mainly comes from the soft palate, tongue position or obstructive sleep apnoea. Persistent or loud snoring should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Do nose strips treat sleep apnoea?
No. Nose strips are not a treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea and should not replace CPAP, oral appliances or medical care. Seek assessment for choking or gasping during sleep, witnessed breathing pauses, morning headaches or excessive daytime sleepiness.
Do nose strips improve running or gym performance?
Nose strips may improve nasal airflow and breathing comfort, particularly for people who feel nasal restriction. Research has not shown a consistent direct improvement in VO₂max or athletic performance in healthy people.
Is mouth tape safe?
Mouth tape is not suitable for everyone. Never use it when nasal breathing is obstructed, after alcohol or sedatives, when nauseated, or when you have a condition that could affect breathing. People with suspected sleep apnoea should seek medical advice before use.
Can I use nose strips and mouth tape together?
Some people use a nose strip first to support clear nasal airflow, then use mouth tape as a gentle closed-mouth cue. Only use mouth tape when you can breathe freely and comfortably through your nose.
How long can I wear a nose strip?
Follow the directions provided with your specific product. On The Nose Co. nose strips are intended for single use during sleep or activity. Remove the strip if irritation or discomfort occurs.
Are nose strips drug-free?
Yes. External nose strips work mechanically and do not contain medicated decongestants. Check the individual product page and packaging for full material and usage information.
Breathe better, your way
Find the right airflow support for sleep, snoring, running or training.
Explore On The Nose Co. nose strips, magnetic nasal strips, mouth tape and breathing bundles designed for comfortable everyday use.